An electronic notary seal is commonly a high-resolution image file of a notary’s seal, which is compatible to be used on Microsoft Word or any word processing programs. For example, in California, an electronic seal is a JPG image of a notary’s seal, which comes with an application to securely view the seal using a password or unlock code.

Is this an Electronic Notary Seal?

I guess not, but the information above and below should sum it up quite nicely.

Electronic notarization or enotarization is gradually gaining traction in the notary industry. That is why some states are already offering electronic notary or enotary commissions on top of the regular notary public appointments.

An electronic notary uses an electronic notary seal every time he or she performs a notarization on a document. In a state where electronic notarization is permitted, every notary seal is assigned a unique identifying number by the Secretary of State’s Office. An electronic notary seal number is issued to each electronic notary as a way for any person to use it in searching and verifying the notary’s commission. The number is designed to be searchable online; and can show the electronic notary’s name, commission number, expiration date, and other vital information.

Aside from the usual electronic notary seal, some states may still require a digital certificate for notarization of electronic documents. A digital certificate acts as an online identification for the notary and it is used to affix the electronic notary signature on these documents. Notaries public may obtain a X.509 Digital Certificate from a State-approved vendor.

It is also important to read any electronic notary act that your Secretary of State’s Notary Department has provided. The procedures on how to affix electronic notary seals or digital certificates may vary in each State, so make sure to read the instructions or manuals carefully.

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Are you an electronic notary? Any tips you can provide others?

By Casey Likeness